2022 Bleasdale The Broad-Side Shiraz Cabernet Malbec, Langhorne Creek

Shiraz-dominant blend with cabernet sauvignon and malbec also contributing. Nine months in French oak, but only 5% of it is new. Fresh fruit is to the fore here, but there's plenty going on besides. Dried herbs, a lick of cedarwood, crushed fennel notes and sweet tobacco lead to smidgens of resin and dust. It feels controlled, well balanced and authentic. Drink 2025 to 2031.

92 points Campbell Mattinson for Halliday Wine Companion, Special Value, August 2024

Bleasdale was founded by Frank Potts in 1850 and has been in continuous production ever since — one of the longest unbroken winemaking histories in Australia, still guided by direct descendants of the founding family. Under current winemaker Sarah Keough, the estate is moving steadily towards minimal intervention, a philosophy that shows in the freshness and authenticity of the wines.

The Broad-Side blends Shiraz with Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec — the latter a signature variety at Bleasdale, grown here longer than almost anywhere else in Australia.

Fresh fruit is clearly to the fore — plum, blackcurrant and boysenberry — alongside dried herbs, a lick of cedarwood, crushed fennel and sweet tobacco. The palate is juicy and medium-bodied with smooth tannins and genuine persistence on the finish.

This is a wine that consistently overdelivers on value. Drink now alongside a slow-cooked lamb shoulder, pasta with a rich tomato sauce or anything coming off a well-seasoned grill.

A vegan friendly wine.